New Uses for Old Paint-By-Number Paintings | Family Economics

By Cathe

Did you ever do a paint-by-number kit as a child? No doubt you’ve seen vintage paint-by-number paintings around in thrift stores and antique shops. Many can also be found in online shops and auctions. I love the small paint blobs that come together to create a scene but then when you look closely they have a fantastic abstract look, which makes them so fun to repurpose.

Paint-by-number paintings have made a comeback as “kitchy” art, but there are so many ways to enjoy the colorful whimsy of these craft kits. Since they are usually made from a cardboard substance they can easily be crafted into unique projects.

Here are some fun ideas for paint-by-number paintings:

• Photocopy or scan paint-by-number paintings to use the prints as small item gift-wrap. You can also use the prints as decoupage and collage pieces.

• Print scanned images on to printable fabric and sew on to items like cosmetic or gift bags, apparel patches, quilt squares, small pillows or pillow sections and more.

• Remove paintings from picture frames and attach shoe-box lids to the backs before mounting to the wall to create a shadow box effect.

• Cut paintings into square sections and coat with a sealer to make unique drink coasters. Adhere cork or felt to the bottoms to finish.

• Create a patchwork art piece by cutting sections of various paint-by-number paintings. Assemble and glue together onto a large canvas or light-weight board for hanging.

• Scan a section of a paint-by-number painting into your computer to use as your background.

• Trim into very small tiles, clear coat and attach jewelry bails to the back to make fabulous jewelry pendants and charms.

• Trace reversed, large alphabet letters onto the backs of two or three paintings. Cut out with a craft knife to make large monogram wall art with a colorful twist. Or, to make it even more abstract, stencil the letter with a light or transparent pen on the colorful painted side.

• Trim paintings to size to fit the front of drawer panels on a small organizer furniture piece.

Can you think of more ideas for vintage paint-by-number paintings? I’d love to know.